Quick answer
Overall prices in the Chicago, IL metro were 103.6 vs 92.6 in New Orleans, LA in 2024 (US = 100), so Chicago is 11.9% more expensive than New Orleans; housing rents differ by 30% (112.0 vs 86.0). A $75,000 income in Chicago buys about what $67,038 buys in New Orleans, per BEA.
Data as of 2024. Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Price Parities 2024
| Price index (US = 100) | Chicago | New Orleans | Chicago vs New Orleans |
|---|---|---|---|
| All items | 103.6 | 92.6 | +11.9% |
| Goods | 107.3 | 93.7 | +14.5% |
| Housing (rents) | 112.0 | 86.0 | +30.2% |
| Utilities | 83.6 | 71.2 | +17.3% |
| Other services | 100.5 | 95.7 | +5.0% |
| All items, 2008 | 105.4 | 98.2 | +7.3% |
| $50,000 in Chicago equals in New Orleans | $44,692 | ||
| $100,000 in Chicago equals in New Orleans | $89,384 | ||
| $150,000 in Chicago equals in New Orleans | $134,075 |
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Last updated 2026-10-16. Data only, not financial or tax advice.